Horseshoe Lake Recreation Area

The trail weaves through towering pine and hardwood forests as well as through the area's open barrens. Whether you are interested in plants, scenery or wildlife, touring the trail with binoculars or camera can allow you to take advantage of fantastic viewing and photographic opportunities. The Horseshoe Lake campground features nine family camping units; one group site that allows up to 14 people. All other sites allow up to eight individuals and up to four vehicles. The sites here are not exclusive to campers with horses however, highlines are present at each campsite. Shared amenities include two vault toilets, two manure pit, and garbage service. Both back in and pull-thru sites are present. Please note there is water available onsite that is non-potable (not safe for drinking) so please plan accordingly. A parking area is available for visitors looking to ride the trails for the day. There is a $5 use fee for day use of the recreation area or you can purchase an annual pass. Whether you are looking for a pleasant afternoon ride or an extended visit, the Horseshoe Lake Saddle Trail is a perfect adventure for any horseback rider. The combined trail loop length is 12 miles. Some distances overlap between the loops. Trail Length: A Loop 9.25 miles, B Loop 3.7 miles, Outside Loop 10.25 miles. So, if you like camping and horseback riding with scenic views of the forest, then the Horseshoe Lake Recreation Area is the place for you. Forest Roads are also open to horseback riding. For a map of roads on the Motor Vehicle Use Map please click here. The nearby Moquah Barrens provides a great place to ride, view wildlife, bird watching and berry picking in the late summer. Bring your trailer with your OHVs (ATVs and UTVs) and access the Iron River Trail from open OHV use roads. OHV use in the campground is prohibited.